As the disciples pass by the fig tree along with Jesus, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots. Peter remembering how the Lord had cursed it the day before, says to the Lord, Rabbi, the fig tree which you cursed has withered away. Jesus knew to walk pass the withered fig tree in which He uses it to teach the disciples vital lessons on being a fruitful Christian. ​ The day before, Jesus clears out the temple courts due to spiritual barrenness that was exhibited within the temple. Prior to going into the temple courts and driving out, overturning, and not allowing anyone to carry merchandise through the temple courts, Jesus curses the fig tree due to its unfruitfulness in being a fig tree with only leaves upon it and no fruit. This was a physical parable that told of the spiritual barrenness of the people of God, who seemed to have produced leaves in an act of outer righteousness while having no fruits of God’s kingdom. Peter, excited to hear what the Lord was going to say about cursing the fig tree and now seeing it withered up from the roots gives attention to the shriveled fig tree. ​ It is from here that the Lord begins to teach the disciples three nutrients of a fruitful Christlike life or true follower of Jesus Christ. ​